TAITEC NR-150 Large-Capacity Orbital/Reciprocal Shaker

Overview

The TAITEC NR-150 is a high-duty, large-capacity laboratory shaker engineered for reproducible and scalable agitation in microbiological, plant tissue culture, and dissolution applications. Designed and manufactured in Japan, it operates on dual-mode mechanical oscillation—selectable between orbital (circular) and reciprocal (linear back-and-forth) motion—enabling precise adaptation to vessel geometry and mixing requirements. Its robust cast-iron frame and precision-machined drive mechanism ensure long-term mechanical stability and minimal vibration transmission, critical for uninterrupted incubation when placed inside environmental chambers. Unlike compact benchtop shakers, the NR-150 accommodates high-volume vessels—including up to fifteen 500 mL Erlenmeyer flasks or three 5 L bottles per tier—making it suitable for upstream bioprocess development, fermentation seed train expansion, and standardized extraction protocols under controlled ambient conditions.

Key Features

• Dual oscillation mode selection via front-panel toggle lever: orbital for uniform suspension of low-viscosity cultures (e.g., E. coli in LB broth), reciprocal for enhanced mixing of viscous or sediment-prone samples (e.g., plant callus suspensions or solid-phase extraction matrices).
• Infinitely adjustable amplitude (10–50 mm), factory-set at 25 mm; optimized amplitude selection improves oxygen transfer efficiency in aerobic microbial growth and accelerates solute diffusion during dissolution testing.
• Full-drawout platform with anti-slip retention mechanism: allows safe, ergonomic access to lower-tier vessels in the dual-tier configuration without compromising structural integrity or operational safety.
• Digital LED display showing real-time speed (rpm) and elapsed time; integrated programmable timer supports durations from 0.1 h to 999.9 h with auto-reset functionality for unattended overnight or multi-day runs.
• Modular platform system compatible with multiple accessory kits—including spring-net platforms (MR-4030L), adhesive-film platforms, clamp-based flask holders (MT-6040C), and tube-specific angle racks (AT-series)—ensuring secure retention across diverse vessel types and sizes.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The NR-150 supports a broad range of standard laboratory vessels: centrifuge tubes (φ12–18 mm), disposable conical tubes (15–50 mL), Erlenmeyer flasks (50–5000 mL), round-bottom flasks (500–5000 mL), and custom-shaped containers via spring-net or adhesive platforms. Its mechanical design conforms to IEC 61000-6-2 (immunity) and IEC 61000-6-3 (emission) standards for laboratory equipment. While the unit itself is non-temperature-controlled (ambient-only operation), its stable base and low electromagnetic interference make it compatible with integration into ISO 14644-1 Class 7 cleanrooms or GLP-compliant incubator rooms. When used with optional accessories such as the MT-6040C clamp platform and calibrated timing protocols, it supports method validation per USP <711> (Dissolution) and ASTM D5232 (Shake Flask Biodegradation Testing).

Software & Data Management

The NR-150 operates as a stand-alone electromechanical instrument without embedded firmware or network connectivity. All operational parameters—including speed, amplitude setting, and timer value—are set manually via physical dials and push-button controls. For auditability in regulated environments (e.g., GMP manufacturing support labs), users are advised to document run parameters in lab notebooks or electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) aligned with 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. Optional accessories such as the TAITEC OD-Monitor series (sold separately) enable real-time optical density tracking when paired with compatible photometric sensors—though this requires external data acquisition hardware and third-party software integration.

Applications

• Microbial culture scaling: Consistent aeration and suspension of E. coli, yeast, and bacilli in volumes up to 5 L per tier, supporting inoculum preparation for bioreactor runs.
• Plant tissue culture: Gentle yet effective agitation of explant-containing liquid media in sterile vessels, minimizing shear stress while maintaining homogeneity.
• Dissolution & extraction studies: Standardized shaking for solid–liquid extraction, leaching assays, and pharmaceutical dissolution testing per compendial methods.
• Cell detachment and resuspension: Reciprocal mode facilitates efficient dissociation of adherent mammalian cells from culture flasks prior to passaging.
• Environmental simulation: Integration within temperature- and humidity-controlled chambers for accelerated aging or stability studies requiring mechanical agitation.

FAQ

Is the NR-150 suitable for use inside a CO₂ incubator?

No—the NR-150 is designed for ambient-temperature operation only and lacks internal temperature regulation or humidity-resistant sealing. It must be placed outside incubators or within climate-controlled rooms.
Can both tiers of the dual-tier model operate at different speeds simultaneously?

No—speed and oscillation mode are synchronized across both tiers via a single drive shaft; independent control is not supported.
What safety certifications does the NR-150 hold?

It complies with Japanese JIS C 61000-6-2 and JIS C 61000-6-3 for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and includes built-in motor overload protection and thermal fuse circuitry.
Are replacement parts and service support available outside Japan?

Yes—authorized global distributors provide technical documentation, spare drive belts, platform mounting hardware, and certified field service through TAITEC’s international partner network.
Does the NR-150 meet FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records?

As a non-digital, analog-control device, it does not generate electronic records. However, its manual parameter logging workflow is fully compatible with Part 11–compliant ELN systems when properly documented.